JOB TITLE

Medical Laboratory Assistant

Full-Time, permanent

Onsite – Downtown Vancouver

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REPORTS TO

The Medical Laboratory Assistant will report to a Clinical Research Manager.

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JOB SUMMARY

Works collaboratively with all research team members toward the best outcomes for the participant and the organization. Performs phlebotomy services, specimen collection/handling/shipping, utilize knowledge of department procedures and databases, and support patients with information and direction utilizing laboratory services. Assists research coordinators with developing standard operating procedures (SOPs), maintain a clean and safe laboratory workspace, routine lab maintenance and preparing samples for transportation and testing. The Lab Assistant will also be assisting with data entry and coordination support as needed. 

 

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

• Perform venipuncture on patients of all ages, both inpatient and outpatient.  

• Performs patient identification, collects and labels specimens for requested testing, processes specimen according to established guidelines and completes documentation for the specimen. Follows established procedures for collecting and processing biological specimens for analysis. 

• Prepares pre-assembled generic specimen collection kits based on study protocols. 

• Prepares participant-specific sample collections, includes labeling with required identifiers, generation of required lab requisitions, and timely delivery of kits 

• Prepares specimens (i.e, centrifuging, aliquoting, and storage), cleanup, and delivery of prepared research samples to designated research laboratories for analysis. Ensures correct blood specimen labeling, pickup and delivery of research lab specimens from BTRG office to the designated research laboratory. 

• Prepares all sample transfer/receipt/dispense with research team. Performs samples verification prior to shipment.  

• Works closely with research staff to maintain an efficient and well-organized laboratory. Ensures work areas are well-maintained, clean and tidy. Fosters effective and collaborative working relationships with fellow employees and management. 

• Assists with day-to-day lab operational tasks such as running the centrifuge and performing general lab duties as needed. 

• Performs routine maintenance and troubleshooting for basic lab equipment. 

• Maintains equipment inventory including all records that reflect calibration and maintenance history. 

• Conducts all activities in accordance with lab standards, Occupational Health & Safety regulations and established policies and practices. 

• Organize and clean freezer and fridge storage locations for sample. 

• Complete data entry of required patient demographics, requisition information, and other information related to processing test results. 

• Support research coordinators in management of study binders, meetings and data entry. 

• Biobank sample management. 

 

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

• Completion of secondary education 

• Certification or training in Phlebotomy (BCIT or Medical Laboratory Assistant Preferred, 1 year of phlebotomy experience preferred) 

• Knowledge of basic lab safety processes and procedures, familiar with lab manuals and related documents (ie. Lab requisitions). Must be able to read, understand and follow work instructions in a safe, accurate and timely manner. 

• Ability to maintain the strictest standards of patient privacy and confidentiality. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and effective verbal and written communication skills. 

• Able to approach, communicate and positively interact with patients and health care professionals while performing their duties, frequently under stressful conditions. 

• Knowledge of and experience in qualitative data collection. Experience working with people in a health care, academic, and/or research environment preferred.  

• Exceptional organizational skills and demonstrated ability to maintain a high level of efficiency and accuracy and attention to detail.  

• Demonstrated initiative and the willingness to work closely with members of a research team to ensure problems are resolved quickly and appropriately.  

• Ability to be self-directed, and to work both independently and within a team environment with excellent customer service skills.  

• Ability to read, understand and follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's), including safety and quality procedures. 

• Experience and competence in basic laboratory techniques such as centrifugation and pipetting are highly desirable. 

• Be part of a highly effective and motivated team and have the willingness to grow within the organization. 

• Proficient data entry skills.  

 

ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATIONS CONSIDERED AN ASSET 

• Medical Laboratory Assistant (must include phlebotomy)  

• UBC Safety & Risk Services in Biosafety  

• Experience with Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) database design and data entry 

• WHMIS, Lab Safety, Chemical Safety Training.  

• Working knowledge of lCH/GCP regulations.  

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Please email a PDF version of your resume and cover letter to careers@btrg.ca

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